Family Of Man Aboard Freighter That Sank Files Suit

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JACKSONVILLE (CBSMiami/AP) — The family of a man who was aboard a cargo ship that sank in storm conditions whipped by Hurricane Joaquin has filed a $100 million lawsuit against the ship's owner and captain.

Willie Gary, an attorney representing the family of El Faro crew member Lonnie Jordan, says the suit was filed in Duval County Court on Wednesday.

Jordan was among the 33 men and women aboard the freighter that sunk October 1st in 15,000 feet of water east of the Bahamas.

The suit alleges that Tote Maritime and its captain, Michael Davidson, were negligent in choosing to sail a 41-year-old cargo ship into dangerous weather. Gary said Tote needs to place more emphasis on employee safety and less on profits.

Tote did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.

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